Lora Swinson

by Lora Swinson
Instead of the traditional studio senior portraits you would have seen 10-15 years ago, you now see photographers encouraging their subjects to include props and items in their session that reflect their subject’s interest and personality. For the first time in my photography journey, I photographed a senior girl with her horse. I had no idea what to expect but I knew that starting with basics and being mindful of ‘the rules’ (and knowing how and when to(…)

by Lora Swinson
Posing your subject is an important element in photography. There is a lot to learn when it comes to posing but I have four quick and simple tips for you!
Take That Second Glance:
When you are in the middle of a session, things can get hectic pretty quickly. When it comes to posing, one of the biggest traits you can pick up as a photographer is to take 2 seconds and double check your pose. Where are your subject’s(…)

It’s time for another installment of one of our favorite blog series, a peek inside. Today we have Lora Swinson.
a peek inside | lora swinson

1. Crumpler 7 Million Dollar Home

I have tried a few other bags that were much cuter but they never worked for me. I started out with a bigger version of this bag and sold it for some of the ‘girly’ brands out there – I tried 2 different kinds – but just didn’t love them as(…)

Are you ready to learn about another one of our newest photography workshops set to debut in January? Today Lora Swinson is here to share more about her upcoming workshop, Shooting 101: Posed for Success (teaching assistants will include Amii Wroblewski, Jennifer Dell, and Dana Tate). You’ve asked for a class on posing and it’s finally here. Read more below to find out exactly what Lora will cover in this awesome new workshop!
an introduction to the posed for success workshop

by Lora Swinson
This is a little effect that I love to use on some of my images if I feel they are a little flat. It is similar to The Orton Effect, but I’ve changed a few of the blending modes to switch it up a little bit. I like rich colors and tones and this helps me bring my style out more. It works on some images better than others, but when it works, it’s magical!

It’s easy to get preoccupied with what everyone else is shooting and how. What we have to do, as cliche as it sounds, is stay true to ourselves. Once you have the basics of focus, exposure, white balance, lighting, etc. down you have to shoot what you love and in your own way. Just because one photographer sees a subject in a certain way doesn’t mean that you have to see that same subject in the exact same way as(…)

How is it February already? It’s the first and that means time for a brand new CMpro of the month! This month we have a wonderful longtime CMmember, Lora Swinson of Swinson Studios. Spend a few minutes admiring Lora’s work and you’ll see what a gift she has for storytelling.

february cmpro of the month | lora swinson

If you could take only three pieces of gear on a shoot, what would they be?
I shoot with only 3 pieces of gear so(…)